Smith moved to the USA from his native Australia in 2002 to play college basketball at Metropolitan State in Denver, quickly switching to rugby and garnering interest from Eagles coach Scott Johnson. He made his Test bow in 2008 and turned out four times at the Rugby World Cup three years later, having signed for Saracens prior to the 2008-09 Premiership season. In 2012, after winning 18 caps for his country and the Premiership with Sarries, Smith set foot on the road to the NFL, visiting the New Orleans Saints and New York Jets for tryouts. In April, his personal coach and agent confirmed a deal with the Jets, ensuring his dream continued.